Welcome to Memorial Day weekend, Chicago: the unofficial start to the summer season. And this year, the weekend will be filled with perfect beach weather — just in time for their 2023 season opening.
Friday, Saturday Sunday and Monday will all be filled with mostly sunny skies, with high temperatures in the high 60s near the lake, but warming into the high 70s for most other areas.
Beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday, residents sand visitors will have the chance to dig their toes in the sand as Chicago beaches open for the 2023 summer season. But this year, guests will see a big change.
In a public safety announcement Thursday, Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Police Department said beachgoers can expect to see more patrols nearby, as well as bag checks.
As you look to plan your Memorial Day weekend in and around Chicago, here’s a roundup of events taking place, what to know if you plan to head to the beach and more.
Chicago Beaches Open
Chicago beaches open for the 2023 season at 11 a.m. Friday, with the season running through Sept. 4, the Chicago Park District says.
According to the the park district, swim conditions are updated each day around 11 a.m. “based on weather and surf conditions, and around 1:30 pm based on water quality conditions.”
This year, the park district says its safety team unit will “provide additional resources to support our busiest beaches.” According to the city, that team is trained to de-escalate situations, and will be monitoring beaches and concession areas.
Memorial Day Things to Do
In and around Chicago, Memorial Day weekend is filled with festivals, flea markets, food and more. Here’s a glimpse into some of the events planned across the city and suburbs.
Navy Pier Fireworks
The iconic fireworks displays at Navy Pier will make their thunderous return on Memorial Day weekend, with the biweekly shows set to last throughout the summer.
The fireworks take place at 10 p.m. on Saturdays, and 9 p.m. on Wednesdays.
Sueños Music Festival
The Latin music festival featuring Fied, Wisin Y Yandal, Grupo Firme and Nicky Jam takes place Saturday and Sunday in Grant Park. The event also features a number afterparties and other events. The full lineup can be found here.
Passes are currently on sale and begin at $199.
Randolph Street Market
The fan-favorite Randolph Street Market, a curated, vintage and antique market takes place Saturday and Sunday and includes more than 200 vendors.
Tickets are required and begin at $12. The market takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, at 1341 W. Randolph St.
Giant Bounce House in Aurora
An “Inflatable Festival” of eight bouncy attractions is coming to Aurora for four weekends, beginning Memorial Day weekend.
“Bounce The Mall,” located in the parking lot of the Chicago Premium Outlets in Aurora May 27 through June 18. Advanced tickets are encouraged. General admission begins at $23 for a 90-minute bounce session. More information here.
Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival
The 38th annual street festival in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood at 3200 N. Sheffield features tribute bands, food, shopping and more. The festival runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day.
Whatever you have planned for Memorial Day, we have it’s a happy a safe holiday!
